Diane Morgan's Musical Journey: An Honest Playlist Revealed
Diane Morgan, the acclaimed star of Philomena Cunk, opens up about her eclectic and deeply personal music tastes in a candid playlist feature. From early childhood fascinations to tracks that shaped her life, Morgan's selections offer a unique glimpse into the sounds that have defined her experiences and emotions.
Early Musical Influences and Childhood Memories
The first song that captured Morgan's heart was Baggy Trousers by Madness. She recalls being utterly captivated by a performance on Top of the Pops, where a man in oversized trousers played a saxophone while suspended from the ceiling. This hilarious and brilliant spectacle left a lasting impression on her young mind.
As a toddler, Morgan was mesmerized by both Kate Bush and the Smurfs, showcasing what she humorously describes as great taste in music. The first single she acquired was likely the Smurfs, requested rather than purchased due to her age of three. Later, using her own pocket money, she bought I Should Be So Lucky, a choice made before her discovery of the influential band the Fall.
Songs with Unforgettable Lyrics and Party Picks
Morgan admits to knowing more music hall songs than typical for her age, a result of being forced to sing them during drama school. She also has every lyric memorized for the Hold a Chicken in the Air song from Spitting Image, a quirky tune she encountered at age eleven.
For parties, she nominates Ghost Town by the Specials, which she considers possibly the best song ever made. While not ideal for lively gatherings, it provides a moment for reflection and contemplation, offering a sit-down break amidst the festivities.
Emotional Connections and Life-Changing Tracks
One song Morgan can no longer listen to is The Lark Ascending by Vaughan Williams. This piece was played nightly during her tour with the play What the Butler Saw, where she served as an understudy and assistant stage manager. A difficult stage manager made this period miserable, and hearing the music now evokes feelings of physical sickness, transporting her back to those stressful wings.
The song that changed her life is The Container Drivers by the Fall. Previously more focused on comedy than music, Morgan found bands that took themselves too seriously embarrassing. Discovering the Fall was a revelation, with its funny and mundane lyrics resonating deeply and shifting her musical perspective.
Morning Motivation and Tear-Jerking Melodies
To start her day, Morgan turns to Java by Bert Kaempfert, an artist she explored during lockdown. She appreciates Kaempfert not only for his music but also for his role in giving the Beatles their big break, describing him as a good egg.
Songs that bring her to tears include Across the Universe, which reminds her of her father and his frequent Beatles playlists, evoking a deep sense of missing him. Additionally, This Woman's Work by Kate Bush is heart-rending, guaranteed to make her cry within seconds due to its emotional depth.
Final Farewell and Upcoming Projects
For her funeral, Morgan chooses If I Can Dream by Elvis Presley, a moving and uplifting song intended to comfort a grieving congregation. This selection reflects her desire for a poignant yet hopeful send-off.
Diane Morgan is set to appear in series two of Last One Laughing on Prime Video, starting from March 19, continuing her work in comedy and entertainment.
